Adaptable cable management desk system

ABSTRACT

An adaptable cable management desk system comprising a frame assembly including at least one static leg. At least one interleg is releasably connected to the frame assembly, each interleg being movable along the length of the frame assembly. A monitor beam having a proximal edge is supported by the frame assembly and a work surface having a distal edge is spaced apart from the proximal edge of the monitor beam. A cableway for running wires and cabling is defined by the proximal edge of the monitor beam and the distal edge of work surface. An access flap is pivotally connected to the proximal edge of the monitor beam and movable from a closed position covering the cableway to an open position providing access to the cableway. A front gully is attached to the distal edge of the work surface and a rear gulley is attached to the proximal edge of the monitor beam, wherein liquid spilled on the work surface and access flap will flow into at least one of the front and rear gully to protect wiring and cabling from the liquid. A door panel is pivotally connected to the static leg or interleg using at least one spring-biased quick release hinge to facilitate removal of the door panel. The door panel may include an inwardly projecting support surface for supporting a computer, the support surface having a plurality of wheels to permit movement of the door panel and support surface relative to the frame assembly. Alternatively, shelves, a file cabinet or other storage may be attached to an inner surface of the door panel and move with the door panel relative to the frame assembly.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional PatentApplication No. 61/049,922, filed May 2, 2008, the entire disclosure ofwhich is incorporated by reference herein

FIELD

This application relates generally to desk systems, and moreparticularly, to an improved cable management desk system or workstationthat can readily adapt to different work environments and computerhardware arrangements.

BACKGROUND

Efficient use of desk space has become critical in today's fast-pacedwork environment. Many workstations, including but not limited totrading desks, require properly placed computers, microprocessors,keyboards, telephones and monitors for easy access to data from varioussources. An efficiently organized trading desk system, for example, iscritical for achieving optimal returns during a fast moving market. Itis equally important to prevent the numerous cables included with theassorted hardware from obstructing a work surface or desk area. At thesame time, cables need protection from accidents, such as inadvertentspilling of beverages or inadvertent tripping and disconnection of thecables, as well as interruption of use. These challenges become moreproblematic when computer-related equipment is regularly re-arranged dueto upgrades or changes in user preferences. Arranging computer equipmentand the accompanying web of cables can often be frustrating and timeconsuming.

Existing computer workstation desks do not easily adapt to changing workenvironments and computer equipment configurations. Furthermore, currentdesk systems do not provide adequate cable management that also protectsthe cables from accidental spilling of beverages and accidentaltripping. It is, therefore, desirable to have a desk system orworkstation that can be adapted effortlessly without special skills ortools to change configurations and computer placement. It is alsodesirable to have a desk system that provides adequate protection tocables from inadvertent beverage spills, tripping and disconnection.

SUMMARY

In one aspect of the disclosure, an adaptable cable management desksystem comprises a frame assembly including at least one static leg. Atleast one interleg is releasably connected to the frame assembly, eachinterleg being movable along the length of the frame assembly. A monitorbeam having a proximal edge is supported by the frame assembly. A worksurface having a distal edge, the distal edge being spaced apart fromthe proximal edge of the monitor beam. A cableway for running wires andcabling, the cableway defined by the proximal edge of the monitor beamand the distal edge of work surface. An access flap pivotally connectedto the proximal edge of the monitor beam and movable from a closedposition covering the cableway to an open position providing access tothe cableway. A front gully attached to the distal edge of the worksurface and a rear gulley attached to the proximal edge of the monitorbeam, wherein liquid spilled on the work surface and access flap willflow into at least one of the front and rear gully to protect wiring andcabling from the liquid.

In another aspect of the disclosure, the desk system may include a doorpanel pivotally connected to the static leg or interleg using at leastone spring-biased quick release hinge to facilitate removal of the doorpanel. The door panel may be supported by at least one wheel to permitmovement of the door panel relative to the frame assembly. The doorpanel may include an inwardly projecting support surface for supportinga computer, the support surface having a plurality of wheels to permitmovement of the door panel and support surface relative to the frameassembly. Alternatively, shelves, a file cabinet or other storage may beattached to an inner surface of the door panel and move with the doorpanel relative to the frame assembly.

The foregoing has outlined rather generally the features and technicaladvantages of one or more embodiments of this disclosure in order thatthe following detailed description may be better understood. Additionalfeatures and advantages of this disclosure will be describedhereinafter, which may form the subject matter of the claims of thisapplication.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

A more complete understanding of this application can be obtained whenthe following detailed description is considered in conjunction with thefollowing drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an exemplary adaptable cable managementdesk system;

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a monitor beam and support arms in thedesk system of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is an exploded, perspective view of the monitor beam and supportarms mounted on an exemplary frame assembly;

FIG. 4 is an exploded, perspective view of a computer trolley, cablewayaccess flaps and drip trays mounted on the frame assembly of FIG. 3;

FIG. 5 is an exploded, perspective view of a work surface mounted on theframe assembly of FIG. 3;

FIG. 6 is a top, cut-away view of the cableway access flap, work surfaceand support arm;

FIG. 7 illustrates the drip tray mounted on the support arm of FIG. 6;

FIG. 8 is a partial, perspective view of the cableway access flap, driptray, rear pivot gully and monitor beam;

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of the cableway access flap pivotallymounted on the rear pivot gully and monitor beam of FIG. 2;

FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a preferred quick release hinge andoptional CPU trolley;

FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a preferred cable management ring;

FIG. 11A is a perspective view the cable management ring of FIG. 11partially mounted on the desk system;

FIG. 11B is a perspective view of the cable management ring of FIG. 11partially mounted on the desk system with a preferred expandable screwanchor;

FIG. 11C is a perspective view of the cable management ring of FIG. 11mounted on the desk system with a fastener;

FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a preferred quick release hinge and aremovable door panel;

FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a preferred movable interleg forsupporting a frame assembly;

FIG. 14 is a perspective view of the movable interleg of FIG. 13 withthe locking clamp actuated;

FIG. 15 is a perspective view of the movable interleg of FIG. 13 slidinginto place within the location channel on the frame assembly of FIG. 3;

FIG. 16 is a perspective view of the movable interleg of FIG. 15assembled on the frame assembly; and

FIG. 17 illustrates the trough plates mounted on the underside of anexemplary frame assembly.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

A preferred adaptable cable management desk system or workstation 1 isdisclosed herein that is readily adaptable to meet the ever-changingfunctional, aesthetic and ergonomic requirements of the user. The desksystem 1 may be utilized in multiple environments, such as on a tradingfloor or in an open plan workstation area, and can be readily convertedfor use from one environment to another (e.g., from a full scale tradingdesk to a collaborative workstation, or vice versa). The adaptable cablemanagement desk system 1 preferably includes quick release and easilyadjustable components, while also providing protection to cables frominadvertent beverage spills, tripping and disconnection.

FIG. 1 illustrates a preferred, exemplary adaptable cable managementdesk system 1 that can be used, for example, as a workstation or tradingdesk. While the desk system 1 illustrated in FIG. 1 is shown in a double(e.g., back-to-back) configuration with separate work surfaces 2 onopposite sides of a central partition, it is understood that the presentapplication is not limited to the illustrated configuration and thatother configurations of the desk system 1 may be utilized, such as asingle configuration having a work surface on one side of the partition.

The desk system 1 includes a frame assembly 10, which is preferablysupported by at least one static leg 10 a. In the embodiment illustratedin FIG. 1, a static leg 10 a is provided at each end of the frameassembly 10. The static legs 10 a are preferably made from pressed steelhaving, for example, an 11 gauge inner framework and a 16 gauge outerskin. The frame assembly 10 preferably includes at least two horizontalmembers 10 b to which the static legs 10 a are attached in aconventional manner, such as, for example, using fasteners orconnectors. The horizontal members 10 b may be, for example, extrudedaluminum members.

The frame assembly 10 may include a movable interleg 5 for supportingthe desk system 1. As will be discussed further below, the movableinterleg 5 is releasably connected to the frame assembly 10 and mayreadily be moved to any desirable position along the frame assembly 10.The ability to readily move the interleg 5, or add or remove interlegs5, allows flexibility to convert a workstation from one configuration toanother. For example, a 180 inch desk system may be converted from a twoposition, 90 inch workstation to a three position, 60 inch workstationby moving one interleg and adding a second interleg so that theinterlegs are 60 inches from an adjacent interleg or static leg. Theinterleg 5 and its connection to the frame assembly 10 will be describedfurther below.

A racking center for mounting electronics and/or computer equipment,such as a 19 inch Electronic Industry Association (“EIA”) rackingcenter, may be provided on the inside face of each static leg 10 aand/or interleg 5. The racking center may be mounted horizontally orvertically on the static leg and/or interleg.

One or more monitor beams 8 are mounted on the frame assembly 10 in aconventional manner such as, for example, using fasteners or connectors.The monitor beam 8 is preferably made from extruded aluminum and isdescribed further below. A plurality of support arms 9 extend from themonitor beam 8. The support arms 9 are preferably made of metal, suchas, for example, 11 gauge pressed steel, and are attached to the monitorbeam using, for example, fasteners or connectors.

At least one work surface 2 is preferably mounted on support arms 9extending from a monitor beam 8 of the frame assembly 10. The worksurface 2 may be made of any suitable material for a work surface,including, but not limited to, medium density fiberboard (“MDF”),formaldehyde-free, FSC certified wood, or particle board, which may belaminated with a conventional plastic or composite material.

A cableway or opening 10 c of FIG. 4 is provided between the monitorbeam 8 and the work surface 2. Trough plates 32 may be attached to theframe assembly 10 to support the cables running through the cableway.Trough plates 32 may be releasably attached to frame assembly 10,configured to slide along frame assembly 10, or can be fixed to frameassembly 10. The trough plates 32 define the bottom of the cableway 10c. The trough plates 32 preferably slide between horizontal extrusionsforming part of the frame assembly 10 to facilitate access to thecableway from below the extrusions. The trough plates 32 also preferablyinclude openings or holes for receiving cable management rings, tiewraps and similar devices used to retain one or more cables. The troughplates 32 may be made form any suitable material, such as, for example,pressed steel.

The cableway 10 c is preferably covered by a hinged cableway access flap3 disposed between work surface 2 and monitor beam 8. The cablewayaccess flap 3 may be made of any suitable material, such as extrudedaluminum, and is discussed in more detail further below.

FIG. 2 illustrates supports arms 9 connected to and extending from themonitor beam 8. The support arms 9 are preferably secured at one end tomonitor beam 8 using one or more fasteners or other conventional means.Alternatively, the support arms 9 may be integrally formed as part ofthe monitor beam 8. Each support arm 9 preferably includes a generallyflat upper surface 9 a for supporting the work surface 2 and a lowersupport plate 9 b for connection to the base and for supporting a driptray 15 of a spill containment system, which will be described furtherbelow.

A rear pivot gully 11 is preferably mounted on the front or proximalside of the monitor beam 8 and an optional backsplash 7 is preferablymounted on the rear or distal side of the monitor beam 8. The monitorbeam 8, rear pivot gully 11 and backsplash 7 are preferably extrusionsmade of aluminum or the like.

FIG. 3 illustrates two monitor beams 8 with outwardly extending supportarms 9 mounted on the frame assembly 10 of an exemplary desk system 1having a double (back-to-back) configuration. Each monitor beam8/support arm 9 assembly is secured to the frame assembly 10 in aconventional manner, such as by inserting one or more fasteners throughrespective openings or holes in the lower support plate 9 b of thesupport arm 9 and into corresponding openings or holes in the uppersurface of the static legs 10 a or in the outermost horizontal member10. The openings or holes may be internally threaded to engagecorresponding threads on the fasteners or a threaded nut may be utilizedto releasably retain the fastener in place.

Once the monitor beam 8 and support arms 9 are attached to the frameassembly 10 as illustrated in FIG. 3, the drip trays 15, cableway accessflaps 3 and CPU trolley 28 or accessory access panels are assembled ontothe frame assembly as illustrated in FIG. 4. A drip tray 15 ispreferably mounted on the lower support surface 9 b of each support arm9 in a conventional manner, such as by the use of fasteners or the like.The cableway access flap 3 is preferably pivotally mounted on the rearpivot gully 11 attached to the monitor beam 8. The CPU trolley 28 oraccessory access panel is pivotally mounted to the static leg 10 a orinterleg 5 preferably using a quick release hinge or the like.

FIG. 5 illustrates the work surfaces 2 mounted on the upper supportsurface 9 a of the support arms 9. The work surfaces 2 are mounted onthe support arms 9 in a conventional manner, such as using fasteners(e.g., quick-connect fasteners, screws, etc.) that pass through openingsor holes in the upper surface 9 a of the support arms 9. Before mountingthe work surface 2 on the support arms 9, a front gully 14 and flapsupport 16 are preferably mounted on a distal end of the work surface 2.The front gully 14 and flap support 16 are described in more detailbelow.

FIG. 6 is a top, cut-away view of the desk system 1. The support arm 9,which is attached to the monitor beam 8, is preferably attached to theupper surface of the static leg 10 a using fasteners 18 that extendthrough corresponding openings in the lower support plate 9 b and theupper surface of the static leg 10 a. The cableway access flap 3 ispivotally mounted on the rear pivot gully 11, which is attached to theproximal edge of the monitor beam 8. A front gully 14 is preferablyattached to the lower, distal edge of the work surface 2. A flap support16 attached to the upper, distal edge of the work surface 2 supports theproximal edge of the cableway access flap 3. The cableway access flap 3,rear pivot gully 11, front gully 14 and flap support 16 are preferablyextrusions made from aluminum.

Like FIG. 6, FIG. 7 is a top, cut-away view of the desk system 1 andillustrates the drip tray 15 mounted on the lower support plate 9 b ofthe support arm 9. In FIG. 8, drip tray 15 preferably includesinterconnected upstanding walls 15 a extending from and along theperiphery of a bottom surface 15 b. The drip tray 15 is preferablypositioned below the open ends of the front and rear gullies 11, 14 sothat beverages or other liquids inadvertently spilled on the worksurface 2 will drain into the front and rear gullies and flow throughthe gullies into the drip tray 15. A drain hole or opening 15 c ispreferably provided in the bottom surface 15 b to permit any liquidcollected in the drip tray 15 to drain out of the tray. A drain tube orother fluid conduit may be optionally attached to the opening 15 c todirect the liquid to a desired location. Alternatively, opening 15 c maybe omitted or plugged so that drip tray 15 simply collects any liquidflowing into it. The drip tray 15 is preferably a rectangular shape, butmay have alternate shapes. The drip tray 15 may be made from metal,plastic or any other suitable material.

FIG. 8 illustrates the cableway access flap 3 pivotally mounted on therear pivot gully 11 attached to the monitor beam 8. When the cablewayaccess flap 3 is in the closed position as shown in FIG. 8, the proximaledge of the cableway access flap 3 is supported by support surface 16 aof the flap support 16, which preferably extends from the upper, distaledge of the work surface 2. In the preferred embodiment, the flapsupport 16 includes a retaining portion 16 b that is inserted into anotch 2 b formed in the distal edge 2 a of the work surface 2, whichforms an interference fit to hold the flap support 16 within the notch 2b. Glue may also be used to retain the flap support 16 within the notch2 a of the work surface 2. The flap support 16 is preferably anextrusion made from aluminum or other suitable material.

The rear pivot gully 11 is attached to and extends from the proximaledge of the monitor beam 8. In the preferred embodiment, the rear pivotgulley 11 includes a lower section 11 a that terminates on one end at anupright pivot support 12. A locating shoulder 11 b preferably extendsfrom the top of the lower section 11 a and is received within a threadedopening 8 a formed in the monitor beam 8 to facilitate proper locationof the rear pivot gully 11 on the monitor beam 8. The bottom surface ofthe lower section 11 a is preferably relieved (e.g., provided with av-notch) below center of the locating shoulder 11 b to facilitatedrilling of holes through the lower section through which fasteners maybe inserted for threading engagement with the threaded opening 8 a inthe monitor beam 8.

The upright pivot support 12 of the rear pivot gully 11 preferablyterminates in an arcuate shoulder or socket 12 a for receiving aspherical member 3 a projecting from a lower surface of the cablewayaccess flap 3. The arcuate shoulder 12 a supports the distal end of thecableway access flap 3. The arcuate shoulder 12 a and spherical member 3a form a ball and socket joint to permit the access flap 3 to pivotabout the arcuate shoulder 12 a as illustrated in FIG. 9.

An arcuate retaining member 3 b projects downwardly from the lowersurface of the cableway access flap 3 adjacent to the spherical member 3a. When the cableway access flap 3 is installed on the pivot support 12with the spherical member 3 a resting in the arcuate support 12 a, thearcuate retaining member 3 b engages the outer surface of the arcuatesupport 12 a. When the cableway access flap 3 is in an upright positionwith spherical member 3 a pivotally connected to pivot support 12,arcuate retaining member 3 b wraps about a substantial portion of theouter surface of the arcuate shoulder 12 a to keep access flap 3 in anupright position and prevent the access flap 3 from being removed whilein an upright position. The cableway access flap 3 may be installed andthe spherical member 3 a inserted within the arcuate support 12 a whenthe access flap is in a position other than the upright position.

As described above, the cable raceway 10 c is accessible in the spacebetween the proximal edge of the monitor beam 8 and the distal edge 2 aof the work surface 2. The cableway access flap 3 substantially enclosesthe top of the raceway 10 c when the access flap is in the closedposition as illustrated in FIG. 8. Access to the raceway 10 c isprovided by pivoting the access flap 3 to the upright position asillustrated, for example, by the ghost lines in FIG. 9.

The rear pivot gully 11 and the front gully 14 provide beverage spillprotection to any cables located in cable raceway 10 c. In the eventthat a beverage or liquid is inadvertently spilled on the work surface 2or cableway access flap 3, the beverage or liquid will between the edgesof the access flap 3 and the work surface 3 and/or monitor beam 8. Suchliquid will flow into the front gully 14 and/or lower section 11 of therear pivot gully 11 in order to prevent damage to any electrical wiringthat may be located in the cable raceway 10 c. The liquid will flowthrough the front gully 14 and/or rear pivot gully 11 and will bedischarged from the open ends of the front and rear gullies into thedrip tray 15 positioned below the outlet of the front gully and rearpivot gully. A drain hole or opening 15 c is preferably provided in thebottom surface 15 b to permit any liquid collected in the drip tray 15to drain out of the tray. A drain tube or other fluid conduit may beoptionally attached to the opening 15 c to direct the liquid to adesired location. Alternatively, opening 15 c may be omitted or pluggedallowing any liquid to accumulate in drip tray 15.

FIGS. 8 and 9 also illustrate the backsplash 7 mounted on the rear ordistal side of the monitor beam 8. The backsplash 7 preferably includesa lower portion 7 a terminating in an upright portion 7 b having arounded edge to prevent chafing. A locating shoulder 7 c preferablyextends from the top of the lower section 7 a and is received within athreaded opening 8 b formed in the monitor beam 8 to facilitate properlocation of the backsplash 7 on the monitor beam 8. The bottom surfaceof the lower section 7 a is preferably relieved (e.g., provided with av-notch) below center of the locating shoulder 7 c to facilitatedrilling of holes through the lower section through which fasteners maybe inserted for threading engagement with the threaded opening 8 b inthe monitor beam 8.

A brush strip (not shown) may be mounted within flanges 3 c projectingfrom the underside of the cableway access flap 3, allowing cables toemanate from cableway 3 to the area above work surface 2. Similarly, abrush strip (not shown) may be inserted within retaining portion 16 b ofthe flap support 16 and within a threaded opening 14 a of the frontgully 14 to prevent warm air from circulating onto the user's lap fromcableway 3.

FIG. 10 illustrates a preferred quick release hinge 20 and optionalaccess door mounted CPU trolley 28 for use with the desk system 1. TheCPU trolley 28 preferably includes an upright panel 28 a, a supportingmember 28 b and an upright stop 28 c. A computer or other electronicequipment (not shown) is placed on the supporting member 28 b betweenthe upright panel 28 a and the stop 28 c. Air circulation holes oropenings 24 are preferably provided in the supporting member 28 b toallow for the circulation of ambient air and cooling of the computer orelectronic equipment carried by the CPU trolley 28.

The CPU trolley 28 is supported by wheels 27 that allow the trolley toroll or otherwise move relative the desk assembly 1. The CPU trolley 28is pivotally mounted to the frame assembly 10 using hinges 20. FIG. 10illustrates the hinges 20 mounted on the static leg 10 a. The hinges 20could also be mounted on the interleg 5 or some other part of the frameassembly 10. By pivotally mounting the CPU trolley 28 on the frameassembly 10, the CPU trolley 28 (and computer or electronic equipment)swings on wheels 27 approximately 90° from a closed position to an openposition. This 90° movement of the CPU trolley 28 minimizes movement ofcables running to the computer or electronic equipment carried by theCPU trolley, thereby minimizing the chance of inadvertentlydisconnecting or bunching of the cables. In addition, shorter cables aregenerally required since the 90° movement does not require as muchexcess cabling or slack as, for example, a computer shelf that pulls outfrom a desk system.

To facilitate the efficient changing of computers or of theconfiguration of the desk system 1, the hinges 20 are preferably quickrelease, spring-loaded hinges, such as Southco® brand F6-20 Serieshinges. Such hinges generally have a moveable, spring-biased pin 21projecting from a hinge housing that is received within a correspondinghole or opening in the on the upright panel 28 a. The CPU trolley 28 canbe readily installed and/or removed from the desk system 1 by depressingthe spring-biased pin 21 on the quick release hinge 20. This isparticularly useful where, for example, one computer carried by a firstCPU trolley is to be substituted with a second computer carried byanother CPU trolley.

The inside surface of the upright panel 28 a is preferably provided withopenings or holes 29 for mounting cable management rings 24 helpeliminate cable stress and maintain a neat, organized cable layoutwithin the desk assembly 1. A preferred cable management ring 24 isillustrated in FIG. 11. The cable management ring 24 preferably includesa generally rectangular body portion 24 a having an opening 24 b throughwhich the cables pass. The body portion 24 a terminates in a flange 24 chaving a hook-like member 24 d projecting from a rear surface of theflange and an opening 24 e located below the hook like member.

FIGS. 11A-11C illustrate a preferred manner of mounting the cablemanagement ring 24 on the upright panel 28 a. First, as illustrated inFIG. 11A, the cable management ring 24 is positioned on the panel 28 aby inserting the hook-like member 24 d into one of the openings 29 onthe upright panel 28 a. An expandable screw anchor 25 is then insertedthough the opening 24 e in the flange 24 c and into a correspondingopening 29 on the panel 28 a as illustrated in FIG. 11B. A screw orother fastener 26 is then threaded or otherwise inserted into thecentral opening of the expandable screw anchor 25 to expand the screwanchor within the opening 29 to retain the cable management ring on thepanel 28 a as illustrated in FIG. 11C.

It is understood that cable management holes 29 and cable managementrings 24 may be utilized anywhere throughout the desk system 1including, but not limited to, the interleg 5 and/or the trough plates32. Cables may be passed through the opening 24 b of the cablemanagement rings 24 to prevent the cables from cluttering the work area.The cable management rings 24 keep the cables organized and minimizesthe undesirable movement of the cables that can result in inadvertentdisconnection of the cables from their associated equipment.

In addition to the CPU trolley 28, other storage components may bereleasably and pivotally connected to the hinges 20. For example, ablank door panel, file storage, book storage and/or electrical accesscover may be readily substituted for the CPU trolley 28 using the quickrelease hinges 20. A blank door panel 28 a supported by a wheel 27 isillustrated in FIG. 12. The door panel 28 a is pivotally mounted on, forexample, the static leg 10 a by means of the quick release,spring-loaded hinges 20 so that the door panel 28 a may swing open toaccess the interior of the frame assembly 10, including, for example, ageneral purpose trolley or shelf placed within frame assembly 10. It isunderstood that different combinations of CPU trolleys, book/filestorage devices and/or blank door panels may be incorporated within theframe assembly 10. In addition, an EIA rack cover may be mounted using,for example, quick release hinges 20, on the static legs 10 a and/orinterlegs 5 to cover the EIA rack. A hinged access panel or removablepanel may be provided to permit subsequent access to the EIA rack, andrelease of one side allows the panel to pivot out of the way to provideaccess.

FIG. 13 illustrates an exemplary movable interleg 5 for supporting andstabilizing frame assembly 10. The movable interleg 5 allows flexibilityto readily move, add or remove interlegs on the desk system 1 inaccordance with the needs of the user. Like the static leg 10 a, themovable interleg 5 preferably includes two upright members 5 aterminating at opposing ends of a horizontal member 5 b. The horizontalmember 5 b preferably includes a central opening 5 c through whichcabling may pass from the cableway 10 c to the interleg 5. The interleg5 is preferably made from pressed steel having, for example, an 11 gaugeinner framework and a 16 gauge outer skin.

A pivot clamp 30, such as a Monroe brand Destaco 606-M straight lineaction clamp, is preferably mounted on each vertical member 5 a. Theclamp 30 preferably includes a foot 34 at the distal end of a push rod30 a that is actuated by a handle 31 to extend and retract the pushrodand foot 34. The vertical members 5 a may optionally terminate at theirfree ends with a substantially flat, horizontal base having a centralopening 5 e through which the foot 34 may extend when the push rod isactuated by the handle 31.

FIG. 14 illustrates the interleg 5 when the clamp 30 is actuated.Actuation of the clamp 30 by pivoting the handle 31 causes the pushrod30 a and attached foot 34 to extend in a direction toward the base 5 dand through the opening 5 e, thereby elevating the interleg relative tothe floor or surface upon which the base 5 d is resting.

FIG. 15 illustrates the preferred manner in which the movable interleg 5is releasably attached to the frame assembly 10. An interleg locationchannel 33 having two downwardly projecting walls 33 a is releasablyattached to the desired location on the underside of the frame assembly10 by, for example, fastening the location channel 33 to the horizontalmembers 10 b of the frame assembly 10. The interleg 5, whose height isslightly less than the static legs 10 a, slides into the interleglocation channel 33 between the two downwardly projecting walls 33 a.Once the interleg 5 is properly located below the frame assembly 10within the interleg location channel 33, the clamp 30 is actuated bymoving the handle 31, which causes the pushrod 30 a and attached foot 34to extend downward and releasably engage the floor or surface upon whichthe interleg is resting as illustrated in FIG. 16. Once the clamp 30 isfully actuated, the interleg 5 is releasably locked in place betweenfloor and the underside of the frame assembly 10.

In the event that the interleg 5 needs to be moved to another locationon the frame assembly 10, or removed altogether, the clamp 30 isactuated again by moving the handle 31 in the opposite direction toretract the pushrod 30 a and attached foot 34 so that the interleg 5 maybe removed from the location channel 33. If the interleg 5 is to berepositioned on the frame assembly 10, then the location channel 33 isrepositioned in the desired location and the interleg is again locked inplace within the location channel in the manner described above.

The location channel 33 preferably includes an opening 33 b aligned withand corresponding to the opening 5 c within the horizontal member 5 b onthe interleg 5 to permit cables to pass from the cableway 10 c to theinterleg.

FIG. 17 illustrates the trough plates 32 mounted on the underside of theframe assembly 10. The trough plates 32 preferably enclose the bottom ofthe cableway 10 c in the desk assembly 1 and provide support for cablesrunning through the cableway 10 c. The ends of the trough plate 32 arepreferably inserted within respective grooves 36 formed within thehorizontal members 10 b, which are mounted on opposing sides of theframe assembly 10. The trough plates 32 preferably slide within thegroove 36 of each horizontal member 10 b to facilitate insertion of oneor more interlegs 5 and to temporarily allow access to the cableway 10 cfrom the underside the frame assembly 10.

The trough plates 32 may also include a plurality of openings 29 formounting cable management rings 24 in the same manner as described inFIGS. 11-11C. Additional openings may be provided in the trough plates32 for mounting other types of cable management rings, such, forexample, round openings for receiving push-in type cable managementrings.

Having described and illustrated the principles of this application byreference to one or more preferred embodiments, it should be apparentthat the preferred embodiment(s) may be modified in arrangement anddetail without departing from the principles disclosed herein and thatit is intended that the application be construed as including all suchmodifications and variations insofar as they come within the spirit andscope of the subject matter disclosed herein.

1. An adaptable cable management desk system, comprising: a frameassembly including at least one static leg; at least one interlegreleasably connected to the frame assembly, each interleg being movablealong the length of the frame assembly; a monitor beam supported by theframe assembly, the monitor beam having a proximal edge; a work surfacehaving a distal edge, the distal edge being spaced apart from theproximal edge of the monitor beam; a cableway for running wires andcabling, the cableway defined by the proximal edge of the monitor beamand the distal edge of work surface; an access flap pivotally connectedto the proximal edge of the monitor beam and movable from a closedposition covering the cableway to an open position providing access tothe cableway; and a front gully attached to the distal edge of the worksurface and a rear gulley attached to the proximal edge of the monitorbeam, wherein liquid spilled on the work surface and access flap willflow into at least one of the front and rear gully to protect wiring andcabling from the liquid.
 2. The adaptable cable management desk systemaccording to claim 1, further comprising at least one drip tray in fluidcommunication with the front and rear gullies, wherein liquid within thefront and rear gullies flows into the drip tray.
 3. The adaptable cablemanagement desk system according to claim 2, wherein the rear gullyincludes a pivot support for pivotally connecting the access flap to themonitor beam.
 4. The adaptable cable management desk system according toclaim 3, wherein the pivot support comprises a relieved shoulder forreceiving a spherical member projecting from a lower surface of theaccess flap.
 5. The adaptable cable management desk system according toclaim 4, further comprising an arcuate retaining member projecting fromthe lower surface of the access flap adjacent to the spherical member,wherein the arcuate retaining member engages the outer surface of thepivot support to prevent removal of the access flap while in an uprightposition.
 6. The adaptable cable management desk system according toclaim 3, further comprising a flap support attached to the distal edgeof the work surface for supporting the access flap when in the closedposition.
 7. The adaptable cable management desk system according toclaim 1, further comprising a door panel pivotally connected to thestatic leg or interleg using at least one spring-biased quick releasehinge to facilitate removal of the door panel.
 8. The adaptable cablemanagement desk system according to claim 7, wherein the door panel issupported by at least one wheel to permit movement of the door panelrelative to the frame assembly.
 9. The adaptable cable management desksystem according to claim 8, wherein the door panel comprises aninwardly projecting support surface for supporting a computer.
 10. Theadaptable cable management desk system according to claim 9, furthercomprising a plurality of wheels for supporting the support surface andpermitting movement of the door panel and support surface relative tothe frame assembly.
 11. The adaptable cable management desk systemaccording to claim 7, wherein the door panel comprises one or more cablemanagement holes for receiving a cable management ring.
 12. Theadaptable cable management desk system according to claim 8, whereinshelves are attached to an inner surface of the door panel and move withthe door panel relative to the frame assembly.
 13. The adaptable cablemanagement desk system according to claim 7, wherein a file cabinet isattached to an inner surface of the door panel, the file cabinet beingsupported by wheels and movable with the door panel relative to the deskframe.
 14. The adaptable cable management desk system according to claim1, further comprising means for releasably connecting the interleg tothe frame assembly.
 15. The adaptable cable management desk systemaccording to claim 1, further comprising at least one clamp attached tothe interleg, the clamp being selectively movable from a releasedposition where the interleg is freely movable to an actuated positionwhere the interleg is elevated relative to a surface on which the desksystem is resting to releasably lock the interleg in place between thesurface and the frame assembly.
 16. The adaptable cable management desksystem according to claim 15, wherein the clamp comprises a pushrodterminating in a foot, the pushrod being movable from a retractedposition when the clamp is in the released position to an extendedposition when the clamp is in the actuated position.
 17. The adaptablecable management desk system according to claim 1, further comprising alocation channel releasably attached to the desk frame for locating theinterleg.
 18. An adaptable cable management desk system, comprising: aframe assembly including at least one static leg; at least one interlegreleasably connected to the frame assembly, each interleg being movablealong the length of the frame assembly; and at least one clamp attachedto the interleg, the clamp being selectively movable from a releasedposition where the interleg is freely movable to an actuated positionwhere the interleg is elevated relative to a surface on which the desksystem is resting to releasably lock the interleg in place between thesurface and the frame assembly.
 19. The adaptable cable management desksystem according to claim 18, wherein the clamp comprises a pushrodterminating in a foot, the pushrod being movable from a retractedposition when the clamp is in the released position to an extendedposition when the clamp is in the actuated position.
 20. The adaptablecable management desk system according to claim 18, further comprising alocation channel releasably attached to the desk frame for locating theinterleg.
 21. The adaptable cable management desk system according toclaim 18, further comprising: a monitor beam supported by the frameassembly, the monitor beam having a proximal edge; a work surface havinga distal edge, the distal edge being spaced apart from the proximal edgeof the monitor beam; a cableway for running wires and cabling, thecableway defined by the proximal edge of the monitor beam and the distaledge of work surface; an access flap pivotally connected to the proximaledge of the monitor beam and movable from a closed position covering thecableway to an open position providing access to the cableway; and afront gully attached to the distal edge of the work surface and a reargulley attached to the proximal edge of the monitor beam, wherein liquidspilled on the work surface and access flap will flow into at least oneof the front and rear gully to protect wiring and cabling from theliquid.
 22. The adaptable cable management desk system according toclaim 21, further comprising at least one drip tray in fluidcommunication with the front and rear gullies, wherein liquid within thefront and rear gullies flows into the drip tray.
 23. The adaptable cablemanagement desk system according to claim 22, wherein the rear gullyincludes a pivot support for pivotally connecting the access flap to themonitor beam.
 24. The adaptable cable management desk system accordingto claim 23, wherein the pivot support comprises a relieved shoulder forreceiving a spherical member projecting from a lower surface of theaccess flap.
 25. The adaptable cable management desk system according toclaim 24, further comprising an arcuate retaining member projecting fromthe lower surface of the access flap adjacent to the spherical member,wherein the arcuate retaining member engages the outer surface of thepivot support to prevent removal of the access flap while in an uprightposition.
 26. The adaptable cable management desk system according toclaim 21, further comprising a flap support attached to the distal edgeof the work surface for supporting the access flap when in the closedposition.
 27. The adaptable cable management desk system according toclaim 18, further comprising a door panel pivotally connected to thestatic leg or interleg using at least one spring-based quick releasehinge to facilitate the removal of the door panel.
 28. The adaptablecable management desk system according to claim 27, wherein the doorpanel is supported by at least one wheel to permit movement of the doorpanel relative to the frame assembly.
 29. The adaptable cable managementdesk system according to claim 27, wherein the door panel comprises aninwardly projecting support surface for supporting a computer.
 30. Theadaptable cable management desk system according to claim 29, furthercomprising a plurality of wheels for supporting the support surface andpermitting movement of the door panel and support surface relative tothe frame assembly.
 31. The adaptable cable management desk systemaccording to claim 27, wherein the door panel comprises one or morecable management holes for receiving a cable management ring.
 32. Theadaptable cable management desk system according to claim 27, whereinshelves are attached to an inner surface of the door panel and move withthe door panel relative to the frame assembly.
 33. The adaptable cablemanagement desk system according to claim 27, wherein a file cabinet isattached to the inner surface of the door panel, the file cabinet beingsupported by wheels and movable with the door panel relative to the deskframe.
 34. An adaptable cable management desk system, comprising: aframe assembly including at least one static leg; a monitor beamsupported by the frame assembly, the monitor beam having a proximaledge; a work surface having a distal edge, the distal edge being spacedapart from the proximal edge of the monitor beam; a cableway for runningwires and cabling, the cableway defined by the proximal edge of themonitor beam and the distal edge of work surface; an access flappivotally connected to the proximal edge of the monitor beam and movablefrom a closed position covering the cableway to an open positionproviding access to the cableway; and a front gully attached to thedistal edge of the work surface and a rear gulley attached to theproximal edge of the monitor beam, wherein liquid spilled on the worksurface and access flap will flow into at least one of the front andrear gully to protect wiring and cabling from the liquid.
 35. Theadaptable cable management desk system according to claim 34, furthercomprising at least one drip tray in fluid communication with the frontand rear gullies, wherein liquid within the front and rear gullies flowsinto the drip tray.
 36. The adaptable cable management desk systemaccording to claim 34, wherein the rear gully includes a pivot supportfor pivotally connecting the access flap to the monitor beam.
 37. Theadaptable cable management desk system according to claim 36, whereinthe pivot support comprises a relieved shoulder for receiving aspherical member projecting from a lower surface of the access flap. 38.The adaptable cable management desk system according to claim 37,further comprising an arcuate retaining member projecting from the lowersurface of the access flap adjacent to the spherical member, wherein thearcuate retaining member engages the outer surface of the pivot supportto prevent removal of the access flap while in an upright position. 39.The adaptable cable management desk system according to claim 34,further comprising a flap support attached to the distal edge of thework surface for supporting the access flap when in the closed position.40. The adaptable cable management desk system according to claim 34,further comprising at least one interleg releasably connected to theframe assembly, each interleg being movable along the length of theframe assembly.
 41. The adaptable cable management desk system accordingto claim 40, further comprising at least one clamp attached to theinterleg, the clamp being selectively movable from a released positionwhere the interleg is freely movable to an actuated position where theinterleg is elevated relative to a surface on which the desk system isresting to releasably lock the interleg in place between the surface andthe frame assembly.
 42. The adaptable cable management desk systemaccording to claim 41, wherein the clamp comprises a pushrod terminatingin a foot, the pushrod being movable from a retracted position when theclamp is in the released position to an extended position when the clampis in the actuated position.
 43. The adaptable cable management desksystem according to claim 34, further comprising a door panel pivotallyconnected to the static leg or interleg using at least one spring-biasedquick release hinge to facilitate removal of the door panel.
 44. Theadaptable cable management desk system according to claim 43, whereinthe door panel is supported by at least one wheel to permit movement ofthe door panel relative to the frame assembly.
 45. The adaptable cablemanagement desk system according to claim 44, wherein the door panelcomprises an inwardly projecting support surface for supporting acomputer.
 46. The adaptable cable management desk system according toclaim 45, further comprising a plurality of wheels for supporting thesupport surface and permitting movement of the door panel and supportsurface relative to the frame assembly.
 47. The adaptable cablemanagement desk system according to claim 43, wherein the door panelcomprises one or more cable management holes for receiving a cablemanagement ring.
 48. The adaptable cable management desk systemaccording to claim 43, wherein shelves are attached to an inner surfaceof the door panel and move with the door panel relative to the frameassembly.
 49. The adaptable cable management desk system according toclaim 43, wherein a file cabinet is attached to an inner surface of thedoor panel, the file cabinet being supported by wheels and movable withthe door panel relative to the desk frame.
 50. An adaptable cablemanagement desk system, comprising: a frame assembly including at leastone static leg; at least one interleg releasably connected to the frameassembly, each interleg being movable along the length of the frameassembly; a door panel pivotally connected to the static leg or interlegusing at least one spring-biased quick release hinge to facilitateremoval of the door panel; and at least one wheel for supporting thedoor panel and permitting movement of the door panel relative to theframe assembly.
 51. The adaptable cable management desk system accordingto claim 50, wherein the door panel comprises an inwardly projectingsupport surface for supporting a computer.
 52. The adaptable cablemanagement desk system according to claim 51, further comprising aplurality of wheels for supporting the support surface and permittingmovement of the door panel and support surface relative to the frameassembly.
 53. The adaptable cable management desk system according toclaim 50, wherein the door panel comprises one or more cable managementholes for receiving a cable management ring.
 54. The adaptable cablemanagement desk system according to claim 53, wherein shelves areattached to an inner surface of the door panel and move with the doorpanel relative to the frame assembly.
 55. The adaptable cable managementdesk system according to claim 53, wherein a file cabinet is attached toan inner surface of the door panel, the file cabinet being supported bywheels and movable with the door panel relative to the desk frame. 56.The adaptable cable management desk system according to claim 50,further comprising at least one clamp attached to the interleg, theclamp being selectively movable from a released position where theinterleg is freely movable to an actuated position where the interleg iselevated relative to a surface on which the desk system is resting toreleasably lock the interleg in place between the surface and the frameassembly.
 57. The adaptable cable management desk system according toclaim 56, wherein the clamp comprises a pushrod terminating in a foot,the pushrod being movable from a retracted position when the clamp is inthe released position to an extended position when the clamp is in theactuated position.
 58. The adaptable cable management desk systemaccording to claim 50, further comprising a location channel releasablyattached to the desk frame for locating the interleg.
 59. The adaptablecable management desk system according to claim 50, further comprising:a monitor beam supported by the frame assembly, the monitor beam havinga proximal edge; a work surface having a distal edge, the distal edgebeing spaced apart from the proximal edge of the monitor beam; acableway for running wires and cabling, the cableway defined by theproximal edge of the monitor beam and the distal edge of the worksurface; an access flap pivotally connected to the proximal edge of themonitor beam and movable from a closed position covering the cableway toan open position providing access to the cableway; and a front gullyattached to the distal edge of the work surface and a rear gulleyattached to the proximal edge of the monitor beam, wherein liquidspilled on the work surface and access flap will flow into at least oneof the front and rear gully to protect wiring and cabling from theliquid.
 60. The adaptable cable management desk system according toclaim 59, further comprising at least one drip tray in fluidcommunication with the front and rear gullies, wherein liquid within thefront and rear gullies flows into the drip tray.
 61. The adaptable cablemanagement desk system according to claim 59, wherein the rear gullyincludes a pivot support for pivotally connecting the access flap to themonitor beam.
 62. The adaptable cable management desk system accordingto claim 61, wherein the pivot support comprises a relieved shoulder forreceiving a spherical member projecting from a lower surface of theaccess flap.
 63. The adaptable cable management desk system according toclaim 62, further comprising an arcuate retaining member projecting fromthe lower surface of the access flap adjacent to the spherical member,wherein the arcuate retaining member engages the outer surface of thepivot support to prevent removal of the access flap while in an uprightposition.
 64. The adaptable cable management desk system according toclaim 59, further comprising a flap support attached to the distal edgeof the work surface for supporting the access flap when in the closedposition.